Delhi, 13 April (H.S.): The 21st Director-General Level Talks on Customs Cooperation between India and Nepal occurred in Kathmandu on 10th-11th April, 2025. The discussions, led by Indian Director-General Abhai Kumar Srivastav and Nepali Director-General Mahesh Bhattarai, focused on various bilateral issues aimed at enhancing Customs Cooperation.

Key agenda items included measures to combat smuggling, progress on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding Pre-arrival Exchange of Customs Data, finalization of the Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement (CMAA), facilitation of transit cargo movement under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS), and digitization of transit processes.

Participants addressed challenges related to trans-border criminal activities, smuggling of goods, including narcotics and counterfeit currency, as well as specific prohibited items. Both nations acknowledged the shared challenge of smuggling and expressed commitment to collaborate in intelligence sharing and prevention efforts.

As part of India’s 'Neighbourhood First' Policy, Nepal is a key partner, with India being Nepal's largest trade partner. The discussions were considered vital for promoting legitimate trade and preventing illicit activities along the border. The meeting ended positively, with the Nepali delegation appreciating India's support in enhancing Customs capabilities. Both sides agreed to explore new technologies to improve trade efficiency and counteract smuggling, reinforcing their cooperative relationship for mutual economic benefit.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar